On a steak restaurant's menu, "Kobe beef sirloin" and "Kuroge Wagyu sirloin" sit side by side, yet the price differs by more than double. Both are wagyu, so what is this difference?—it's the question we get most often from our guests.
In this article, after clarifying the relationship between Kobe beef and Kuroge Wagyu, we compare our actual menu prices (KOBE BEEF FACTORY Kyoto Kawaramachi Garden) and explain concretely which to choose.
Conclusion: Kobe Beef Is "a Very Small Part of Kuroge Wagyu"
The first thing to understand is that Kobe beef and Kuroge Wagyu arenot two opposing types. Their relationship is nested.
- Kuroge Wagyu= one of the four wagyu breeds. The majority of wagyu distributed in Japan is this.
- Tajima Beef= Kuroge Wagyu produced in Hyogo Prefecture.
- Kobe Beef (Kobe-gyu)= a designation given only to Tajima beef that meets the strict grading standards set by the Kobe Beef Distribution Promotion Council.
In other words, the relationship is "Kuroge Wagyu ⊃ Tajima beef ⊃ Kobe beef." Kobe beef is only a tiny fraction of Kuroge Wagyu, and each animal is managed by an individual identification number. The reason for the price difference lies in this strict selection.
The Actual Difference, Seen in Our Prices
Rather than explaining in words, comparing the same cut and the same gram weight should be quicker. Since we offer Kobe beef and Kuroge Wagyu in the same lineup, the price gap is directly visible.
| Cut / Portion | Kuroge Wagyu | Kobe Beef | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sirloin Set 100g | ¥5,280 (incl. tax) | ¥11,880 (incl. tax) | Approx. 2.3x |
| Sirloin Set 160g | ¥7,040 (incl. tax) | ¥19,140 (incl. tax) | Approx. 2.7x |
| Chateaubriand Set 160g | ¥11,770 (incl. tax) | ¥25,630 (incl. tax) | Approx. 2.2x |
| Sukiyaki Set | ¥5,280 (incl. tax) | ¥11,880 (incl. tax) | Approx. 2.3x |
| Diced Fillet Steak Set 100g | ¥7,480 (incl. tax) | ¥11,880 (incl. tax) | Approx. 1.6x |
The gap is roughly a little over 2x.
So, Which Should You Choose?
When Kobe Beef Is a Good Fit
Anniversaries, business entertaining and gatherings, and the trip where you think "since I've come all the way to Kyoto, I want to choose by the name." When the name "Kobe beef" itself holds value, we recommend Kobe beef without hesitation. Sirloin and chateaubriand in particular are cuts where the difference in fat quality clearly shows.
When Kuroge Wagyu Is a Good Fit
This is for when you think, "I want to eat a proper wagyu steak, but keep the budget down." Our Kuroge Wagyu Sirloin Set 100g is ¥5,280 (incl. tax)—an accessible price range for a wagyu steak set. It also suits those who want to prioritize portion size.
A Middle-Ground Option When Undecided
Our Kobe beef yakiniku set starts from ¥4,620 (incl. tax). At a more affordable price than steak, it's an option to try Kobe beef itself. For those who want to experience Kobe beef first, we think starting here is a safe bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Kobe-gyu and Kobe beef different things?
They are the same. The official name is "Kobe beef," while "Kobe-gyu" and "Kobe-niku" are used as common names.
Is Kobe beef always marbled?
The degree of marbling varies greatly by cut. Lean meat and fillet are not as fatty as sirloin. For those who find heavy fat too much, we recommend the Kobe beef lean steak set (from ¥7,040 incl. tax).
Summary
Kobe beef is a part of Kuroge Wagyu, a designation only those passing strict standards may use. The price difference is roughly a little over 2x.Choosing by occasion and budget is the right answer—it is not a matter of which is superior.
The prices for all 46 items can be found in theFood Menu. When you visit, please also see theRestaurant Info & Access.